Our 15 best winter sun destinations: short, medium and long–haul

At a glance: Best winter sun destinations

When you’ve packed away the summer clothes but not the travel bug, a dose of winter sun can make all the difference.

From Tenerife’s 22°C January highs to Thailand’s tropical 32°C heat, our in-house travel experts have compared flight times, average temperatures and what each destination does best.

Short-haul winter favourites (1–5 hours from the UK)

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands – best short–haul escape

Why go?

With short flights, year-round warmth and familiar comforts, Tenerife is one of the UK’s favourite winter escapes for good reason. The air is mild enough for al fresco dining, but cool enough for exploring Mount Teide National Park or the island’s UNESCO-listed forests.

Expert insight

Tenerife is the Canaries’ all-rounder; familiar but never dull. Many of our customers like it because everything feels easy once you arrive. English is widely spoken, hotels are well equipped and restaurants happily cater to British tastes. Pharmacies are easy to find, and roads are smooth and well signposted.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Average highs sit around 21 to 22°C, with long sunny days and very little rain. The island’s volcanic peaks create microclimates: the south coast stays warm and bright, while the north is cooler and greener. When Atlantic winds pick up, the weather can shift quickly – you might leave cloud behind and find clear skies half an hour down the coast.

Peak or off-peak?

Tenerife has two peak seasons: December to April and June to August. Prices for flights and hotels can rise by 30 to 50% in these months, especially around Christmas, New Year and February half-term. Northern areas like Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava are often cheaper than the South during this time and offer a quieter, more local atmosphere.

Flight time

Around 4½ hours direct from most major UK airports.

Our top tip

Flights into Tenerife South (TFS) can occasionally face short delays in winter, particularly when calima dust drifts across from the Sahara, or when strong Atlantic winds affect runway operations. It’s rarely serious, but it can slow the flow of arrivals. With travel delay and cancellation cover*, Avanti can help if your departure or arrival is significantly postponed, or if you need to rearrange accommodation as a result.

2. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands – best all-rounder

Why go?

Gran Canaria has a little bit of everything. The south coast offers golden beaches in Maspalomas and Puerto Rico, while the north is home to historic Las Palmas, a working Spanish city with markets, museums and lively tapas bars. Head inland and you’ll find pine forests, whitewashed hill villages and viewpoints looking out over the Atlantic.

Expert insight

The island’s microclimates mean that even if clouds roll in up north, the south often stays sunny. Roads are generally well kept, and English is widely spoken, making it an easy place to explore independently.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Expect mild, dry days and plenty of sunshine, especially along the southern coast. Occasional showers may pass through the north and mountain areas, but they rarely last long. Average highs hover near 21°C, though sheltered beaches often feel warmer.

Peak or off-peak?

December to April is Gran Canaria’s peak season. The beaches stay busy but aren’t overcrowded, and accommodation prices reflect the demand.

Flight time Around

4½ hours direct from several UK airports, including Manchester, Birmingham and Gatwick.

Our top tip

Gran Canaria’s one of the Canary Islands’ best spots for excursions – so it’s good to know Avanti policies include cover for a more than 80** organised experiences on a non-professional, non-competitive basis. That includes activities like hiking, snorkelling and swimming with dolphins (as long as they’re professionally organised and supervised). Check our policy documents for the full list of covered activities.

3. Lanzarote, Canary Islands – best for families

Why go?

Lanzarote stays pleasantly warm through winter. The island is compact, calm and easy to get around, making it a great choice for families travelling with children or older relatives. Resorts are well designed for accessibility, offering flat promenades, step-free pools and lifeguarded beaches in Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise.

Expert insight

Winter is Lanzarote’s quieter season, but almost everything stays open – from animal parks to Jameos del Agua’s underground caves. The island’s roads are quiet, and attractions rarely feel crowded, so you can explore at your own pace.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Days boast average highs of around 21°C with low humidity and a gentle breeze. Rainfall is minimal, and even cloudy days are mild. Pools are often heated, and the sea is usually comfortable enough for a quick dip.

Peak or off-peak?

Winter (December to April) is Lanzarote’s main peak season for UK visitors, as the island stays warm while the rest of Europe cools. Prices rise slightly around Christmas and half-term, but they’re still lower than summer rates in mainland Spain.

Flight time

Around 4 hours direct from most major UK airports.

Our top tip

Family holidays often span generations. There’s no upper age limit on our travel insurance. That means everyone can be covered on the same policy, from grandparents to grandkids.

Big family trips also mean more bags to keep track of, which is where our baggage cover (up to £3,000 per person) can come in handy. Optional gadget cover can also help replace lost or damaged tech, from kids’ tablets to cameras.

4. Algarve, Portugal – best for golf

Why go?

Bright skies, peaceful beaches and mild 17°C days make the Algarve ideal for travellers who prefer gentle sunshine over scorching heat. Cooler winter days mean more space to enjoy cliff-top walks, seafood restaurants and some of Europe’s best golf courses.

Expert insight

Winter is often called the golden season for golfers here. Hotels stay open but rates drop, and the atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Expect mild temperatures of around 17°C with more sunshine than rain. Showers can appear in January, but they’re usually brief. Greens and fairways stay lush, making this a popular off-peak destination for active travellers.

Peak or off-peak?

Winter is off-peak for the Algarve, which keeps prices down. Local restaurants and smaller hotels generally remain open, and golf courses are quieter – perfect if you’d rather skip summer crowds.

Flight time

Around 3 hours direct from most UK airports.

Our top tip

If you’re travelling with clubs, consider adding optional golf cover to your policy. It protects your equipment if it’s lost or damaged, reimburses non-refundable green fees if bad weather or illness stops play, and even includes a £75 payout if you score a hole-in-one.

5. Cyprus – best for value

Why go?

If you’re looking for sunshine that won’t stretch your budget, Cyprus is a winter gem. Flights and hotels can cost half as much as in summer, and car hire and entry fees for major archaeological sites are cheaper too.

Expert insight

Cyprus has a story to tell at every turn, and winter is one of the best times to hear it. The weather’s warm but comfortable, and the crowds have gone, leaving you free to explore Roman mosaics in Paphos, Byzantine churches in the Troodos Mountains and the Venetian walls around Nicosia.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Days average around 17°C with plenty of sun and occasional short showers. The sea is cooler but still pleasant for walking and boat trips.

Peak or off-peak?

Winter is off-peak in Cyprus, meaning quieter attractions and better prices. Peak season returns in summer (June to August) when temperatures rise sharply.

Flight time

Around 4½ to 5 hours direct from UK airports, including Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham.

Our top tip

Cyprus sits at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East, but it still counts as Europe on Avanti travel insurance policies. That means you can choose Europe cover and avoid paying for a wider worldwide policy.

It’s worth taking your EHIC or GHIC card, as it can help with basic state healthcare while you’re there. Just remember, it doesn’t cover private treatment, getting you home, or care in Northern Cyprus, where medical costs must be paid in full. With Avanti, you’re covered across the whole island.

6. Malta – best for sunny city breaks

Why go?

Malta offers a city-break feel with Mediterranean sunshine, historic streets, and harbourside cafés that stay lively all winter. Its capital, Valletta, is full of character and easy to explore on foot. Excellent public transport connects the city to coastal towns and nearby islands, so getting around couldn’t be simpler.

Expert insight

Winter (November to March) is Malta’s off-peak season, so flights and hotels are often much cheaper than in summer. You’ll also find fewer crowds at attractions like Mdina’s walled city and the Hypogeum, which book out early in peak months.

Weather and seasonality (Dec – Jan)

Expect bright, breezy days with average highs around 16.7°C and short, passing showers. It’s cool enough for sightseeing yet warm enough for outdoor lunches by the harbour.

Flight time

Around 3¼ hours direct from most UK airports.

Our top tip

Valletta’s charm comes with a few hills and steps, which can make exploring more of a workout than expected. If you’re planning to explore on foot, Avanti’s travel insurance for pre-existing conditions can give you extra reassurance that help’s available if you feel unwell while out and about.

7. Madeira, Portugal – best for scenic walks

Why go?

Madeira’s mix of ocean views, mountain walks and mild weather makes it a favourite with UK travellers looking for a change of pace. Known for its lush scenery and year-round greenery, the island is a haven for walkers and nature lovers.

Expert insight

Winter is Madeira’s quieter season – a great time to explore at your own pace without the summer crowds, especially if you’re planning to walk the levadas. Lower routes such as Caldeirão Verde and Levada das 25 Fontes stay open year-round, while some higher mountain tracks may close after heavy rain.

Weather and seasonality (Dec – Jan)

Daytime highs hover around 18.7°C, with occasional rain in the hills and plenty of sun along the coast.

Flight time

Around 3¾ to 4 hours direct from UK airports including Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol.

Our top tip

If illness or an emergency means you need to cancel or cut short your trip and miss a pre-booked walking tour or excursion, Avanti’s cancellation and curtailment cover (up to £7,500 per person) can help you recover your costs.

8. Morocco – best for culture

Why go?

If you’re after a big cultural change within a short flight, Morocco delivers. In just under four hours, you can swap grey skies for Marrakesh’s terracotta rooftops, winding souks and the scent of spices in the air. Winter brings mild days and smaller crowds, so you can take your time exploring mosques, medinas and mountain trails without the summer rush.

Expert insight

Accommodation remains good value in winter, though it’s worth noting that heating isn’t always standard in budget riads or guesthouses. Higher-end hotels usually provide in-room heaters or thick blankets for chilly nights.

Weather and seasonality (Dec – Jan)

Days average around 17°C, perfect for sightseeing, while cooler evenings make rooftop dinners and mint tea even more enjoyable. It’s also the ideal time for a twin-centre trip – start with a few days in Marrakesh or Fez, then head to the coast at Essaouira or Agadir for sea air and sunshine.

Flight time Around

3¾ hours direct from UK airports such as Gatwick and Manchester.

Our top tip

Like Cyprus, Morocco counts as Europe on Avanti travel insurance policies.

Top mid and long–haul destinations (5–13 hours from the UK)

9. Cape Verde – best mid-haul

Why go?

A six-hour flight with no time difference makes Cape Verde one of the easiest ways to find real winter warmth without hassle or jet lag. Off the coast of Senegal, this group of ten islands blends African sunshine with Portuguese charm.

Expert insight

Each Cape Verde island has its own personality. Sal is lively and easy-going, perfect for beach walks and live music in the evenings. Boa Vista feels quieter, with desert scenery and good conditions for kitesurfing or dune buggy rides. São Vicente is known for its carnival spirit, while Santo Antão is a favourite for hiking.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Expect stable, dry weather and long hours of sunshine. Sea breezes keep temperatures comfortable even when the sun is strong. Rain is rare in winter, and evenings stay pleasantly mild. Average highs hover around 24.7°C.

Peak or off-peak?

Cape Verde’s main season runs from November to April, with slightly higher prices over Christmas and New Year. It remains quieter than the Caribbean and often better value than long-haul alternatives.

Flight time

Around 6 hours direct from UK airports, including Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester.

Our top tip

Some Cape Verde resorts sit outside main towns, meaning medical help can take longer to reach you. With unlimited medical expenses and 24-hour emergency assistance, Avanti is there if you ever need support, whether you’re staying in a busy beach resort or a remote coastal retreat.

10. Egypt – best for groups

Why go?

Planning a trip with friends or family? Egypt makes it easy to please everyone. You’ll find warm days, clear seas for snorkelling and diving, and some of the world’s most famous historic sights – all within reach of resorts to suit every pace

Expert insight

Winter is one of the most comfortable times to visit Egypt. The air stays warm but not overwhelming, so you can enjoy sightseeing without the heat. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are favourites for group holidays, with plenty of activities, dining options and guided day trips. English is widely spoken, and local tour operators are used to helping larger groups get around smoothly.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Winter days average 18.7°C, with clear skies and cool evenings. It’s warm enough for swimming and sightseeing but not too hot for exploring the pyramids or temples.

Peak or off-peak?

Egypt’s peak months for international visitors are October to April, when the weather is warm but comfortable. Prices tend to rise slightly around Christmas.

Flight time

Around 5½ hours direct from major UK airports, including Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester.

Our top tip

If you’re travelling together, Avanti makes it simple to get covered as a group. Our group travel insurance policies can include up to nine people online or up to 30 by phone – even if you live at different addresses.

11. Dubai, UAE – best for luxury getaways

Why go?

Dubai makes luxury simple. It’s easy to reach, easy to navigate and everything’s designed to run smoothly. You’ll find warm weather, spotless beaches and service that’s second to none.

Expert insight

Winter marks Dubai’s most comfortable season, when 24 to 26°C days replace the soaring 40°C temperatures of summer. This makes it the best time to enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions, from open-air souks to desert safaris, without darting between air-conditioned stops.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Expect sunny, dry weather with very little rain. Temperatures are ideal for being outdoors, and humidity is low. The sea remains warm enough for swimming and water sports.

Peak or off-peak?

December to March is peak season, when the city hosts events like the Dubai Shopping Festival. Prices rise during this time.

Flight time

Around 7 hours direct from UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow.

Our top tip

If shopping’s on your to-do list, Avanti’s baggage and personal belongings cover can protect purchases and valuables (up to £3,000 per person depending on your policy level) while you travel.

12. Thailand – best for solo travellers

Why go?

Thailand is one of the world’s most welcoming destinations for solo travellers. It’s friendly, affordable and set up to make things easy – from English-speaking locals to well-run tours and guesthouses that welcome single guests. You’ll find lively cities, quiet beaches and plenty of chances to meet others if you want company.

Expert insight

Thailand’s perfect for those trying solo travel for the first time. Public transport and domestic flights are reliable, and activities like island-hopping or cooking classes make it easy to connect with fellow travellers. The Andaman coast – including Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lanta – enjoys clear skies and calm seas through winter.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Thailand tops our list as the hottest winter sun destination, with average highs of around 30°C. This is the dry season, bringing hot days, low humidity and calm water. The Gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan) can see short tropical showers, but they usually pass quickly.

Peak or off-peak?

November to March is peak travel season, especially in southern beach resorts. Prices for flights and accommodation are highest over Christmas and New Year, but shoulder months like November or March offer the same sunshine for less.

Flight time

Around 11½ hours direct from London, or 14 to 16 hours with a stopover from other UK airports.

Our top tip

Trying street food is one of the best parts of travelling in Thailand, from pad thai made to order to spicy papaya salad fresh from a market stall. But a change in diet or heat can sometimes catch you off guard. With up to unlimited medical expenses and 24/7 emergency assistance, Avanti can help if you need treatment abroad, so you can tuck in with confidence.

13. Mauritius – best for couples

Why go?

Mauritius has a well-earned reputation for beauty – calm blue waters, white-sand beaches and lush mountain views. Yet there’s more to discover beyond the shoreline, from botanical gardens and forest walks to colourful markets and family-run cafés serving island favourites. Whether you want rest or adventure, Mauritius has both in easy reach.

Expert insight

Direct flights from the UK take around 12 hours, but many travellers choose a short stopover in Dubai or Doha. The north and west coasts are drier in winter, while the south offers wilder scenery and fewer crowds.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

This is summer in Mauritius, bringing warm (average highs of 28.3°C), humid weather and occasional tropical rain. Showers usually come in short bursts and clear quickly, leaving bright skies behind.

Peak or off-peak?

December to March is peak season, with slightly higher prices around Christmas and New Year. April to June brings lower rates and cooler air but remains warm enough for beach days.

Flight time

Around 12 hours direct from London, or about 15 hours with a short stopover from other UK airports.

Our top tip

If you’re planning a honeymoon or special trip, Avanti’s cancellation cover (up to £7,500 per person) can help if illness or an emergency changes your plans. Our baggage cover protects valuables such as cameras or jewellery up to £3,000 per person.

14. Dominican Republic – best for Christmas sunshine

Why go?

If you’re craving festive warmth, the Dominican Republic delivers. Resorts in Punta Cana and La Romana are known for all-inclusive comfort, while the north coast around Puerto Plata offers a quieter, more traditional feel.

Expert insight

Christmas and New Year are celebrated with real spirit here. Expect lively music, colourful street parties and long evenings spent outdoors. Local traditions run through the whole season, from roast pork feasts to pudim navideño – the island’s version of Christmas pudding.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

Expect consistent tropical warmth, with average highs of around 30°C, gentle sea breezes and very little rain. Winter falls within the island’s dry season, making it an ideal time for beaches, swimming and water sports.

Peak or off-peak?

December to March is peak season here, particularly around Christmas and Easter. Prices are higher, but the weather is at its best.

Flight time

Around 9 hours direct from Gatwick and Manchester.

Our top tip

Holiday seasons can make travel unpredictable, from busy airports to overbooked flights. Avanti’s travel delay and cancellation cover (up to £7,500 per person) can help if your journey is postponed or rescheduled.

15. Maldives – best long-haul

Why go?

Nowhere does calm quite like the Maldives. Each resort there sits on its own small island, surrounded by white sand and clear lagoons that stay warm all winter. It’s the ideal place to slow down completely.

Expert insight

Getting between islands in the Maldives takes a little planning. Shared seaplane transfers can cost between £275 and £1,200 per person return, depending on distance and operator, and they only run during daylight hours, usually until around 3pm. If your international flight arrives later, you may need to stay overnight near Malé before continuing your journey the next day. For shorter hops, speedboat transfers are a slower but more affordable option, though timings can depend on sea conditions.

Once you’ve made the journey, life moves at a gentler pace. The Maldives is still known for luxury, but it’s becoming more accessible, with mid-range resorts and locally run guesthouses opening alongside five-star retreats.

Resort islands have a relaxed feel, with alcohol available and dress codes kept casual, while local islands follow the Maldives’ Muslim customs – modest clothing is expected away from beaches, and alcohol isn’t served.

Weather and seasonality (Dec–Jan)

The Maldives has two main seasons. They’re both called monsoons, but that doesn’t mean constant rain. The names simply describe the direction of the seasonal winds.

From December to April, the northeast monsoon brings dry air from India across the Indian Ocean. It’s the Maldives’ calm, sunny season, with low humidity and clear blue skies.

Peak or off-peak?

December to April is the busiest and most expensive time to visit the Maldives. Resorts fill quickly, especially around Christmas and New Year, and prices for flights and accommodation can rise significantly. Our experts say booking well in advance is essential if you have your eye on a particular island or over-water villa.

Flight time

Around 10½ hours direct from London, or approximately 13 hours with a stopover from other UK airports.

Our top tip

If bad weather or late arrivals affect your island transfer, Avanti’s can help with extra accommodation or rearranged plans. Missed connection cover (Classic and Deluxe policies) adds support if flight timings don’t match up.

Ready to chase the sun? Don’t forget travel insurance

You’ve chosen your sunshine escape – now it’s time to make sure nothing gets in the way of it. Flight delays, lost luggage or a medical problem abroad can happen to anyone, but the right travel insurance helps you stay protected wherever you go.

Avanti travel insurance includes round-the-clock emergency medical support, cancellation protection and optional extras like cruise, golf or gadget cover if they fit your plans.

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^{All temperature figures in this guide were calculated using the average of the daily high temperatures for December, January and February, taken from holiday-weather.com for each destination.}

^{*Cover subject to policy level. Please see our policy documents for more information.}

^{**Please see our policy documents for full list of sports and activities covered. Activities marked with a single * will exclude all cover under the personal accident and personal liability sections of your policy.}